Shab-e-Mehraj observed with religious fervor across JK

Srinagar, Apr 25: Shab-e-Mehraj, the night of ascent when the Holy Prophet Muhammad (?) ascended to the highest levels of Heavens, was Tuesday observed with religious fervor across the state.
According to KNS correspondent, thousands of devotees from the Valley thronged Hazratbal shrine housing the relic of the Prophet (?) of Islam and held a night-long prayer there.
The devotees also offered the afternoon (Zuhar) prayers there and had a glimpse of the holy relic during which they got emotional and raised their hands for prayer reciting Quranic verses.
Religious scholars in their sermons highlighted the importance of the night and its blessings besides highlighting the teachings and various aspects of the life of Prophet Muhammad (?).
Meanwhile, witnesses told KNS that a number of vehicles from State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) ferried devotees to and fro the shrine, especially from far-flung areas of Kashmir.
The J&K Wakf Board, controlling the shrine, had also made special arrangements for the devotees.
Mehraj-ul-Alam was also observed with religious fervor in various masjids and shrines including Jenab Sahib Soura, Asar-i-Sharief Shehri Kalashpora, Ka’aba Marg, Asar-i-Sharief, Baramulla, Aham Sharief, Bandipora and others.
It is worth to mention here that the Muslims every year observe the Shab-e-Mehraj on 27th of Rajab (Islamic calendar), the night the Holy Prophet (?) embarked on a special journey to meet Allah Almighty, crossing seven skies riding the heavenly ‘al-Buraq’.
The word ‘Mehraj’ is derived from Arabic word Urooj, which means height, or ascension. During Mehraj, the command for five daily prayers (Salaat) was also given to the Holy Prophet (?). (KNS)